So question for HN on this topic: I've always considered salaries not being public to be better for me because historically I've been able to negotiate well wh

So question for HN on this topic: I've always considered salaries not being public to be better for me because historically I've been able to negotiate well when we get to that stage, but I know that this isn't the case for everyone. I am also aware that employers can pay for previous w2 salary info (assuming the company used a major payroll provider)... and there are other strategies that companies use that gives them an edge in negotiations... but for the most part it seems like making salary info public really only hurts employees at lower compensation levels and will reduce income because the negotiation step will go away. That is workers will no longer be able to benefit from asymmetric information. It seems like people view this as a progressive measure that will help workers, but I don't see it that way at all. I think it will help SOME workers but the most competent, resourceful workers. What am I missing? Why are governments (e.g. Colorado, EU) wanting to enact these sorts of directives?